America has a drug problem but it’s probably not what you think. When we think of the drug abuse we often assume it is younger people who’re experimenting with opioids or illicit substances and became addicted. Less well known is how overly medicated seniors are with a variety of prescription and over-the-counter drugs for all manner of conditions.
Author: Devon Herrick
Anxious, Depressed? There’s an App for that
Covid and the lockdowns increased self-reported cases of anxiety and depression but patients were unable to meet therapists face-to-face. All forms of telemedicine rose in 2020 and 2021 including psychotherapy. Covid jump started online and telephone-based metal health counseling. As a result, therapist and patient began connecting through apps.
Health Care Sharing Ministries are an Alternative to Obamacare
Consumers who want to join a sharing ministry should check to make sure the sharing ministry plan is right for them the same as they would for Obamacare plans. Many sharing ministries either have a waiting period or do not cover pre-existing conditions, for example. Many (if not all) have specific criteria for things they will not cover. These include claims such as drug addiction treatment, sometimes even out-of-wedlock pregnancies.
The FTC wants to Know if Middlemen Increase Drug Prices
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is opening an investigation into the business practices of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs). PBMs have been in the hotseat for quite some time. Executives from the largest PBMs were recently called to testify before Congress to explain whether their business practices lead to higher drug prices. In the latest inquiry, the FTC announced it will require the six largest PBMs to provide a range of information and business records on operations.